Winter Overflow Shelters Open November 1

November 6, 2018

During the height of the 2017 winter (December – February), less than one third of the nights in Fort Collins were above freezing. During that same period of time, Homeward 2020 reported that there were 364 homeless adults and children in the City, an increase of 26% from 2016 and a number that was well above the shelter capacity of 200.

To address this critical issue, United Way partners with the City of Fort Collins, Catholic Charities, Fort Collins Rescue Mission, Homeward 2020, local churches and volunteers to provide additional cold weather shelter options for residents of Larimer County. Last year, this coalition of community partners provided more than 1,800 nights of shelter through the program, and on November 1 the overflow shelters once again opened for the season, providing a warm place to sleep through April 30.

Given the winter season is starting early this year and that predictions indicate an especially cold season, the overflow shelters will likely see heavy use and need your support. Please schedule your Colorado Gives Day gift today to help United Way meet this, and other, critical community needs.